Barcelona receive positive update as key player set to return for Celta Vigo clash following injury scare: Reports
Frenkie de Jong is all set to rejoin Barcelona training on Thursday (November 21), according to journalist Javier Miguel. The Dutch midfielder was released from the national camp ahead of the game against Bosnia and Herzegovina due to medical reasons.
That raised doubts about the player's availability for the upcoming LaLiga clash against Celta Vigo away on Saturday, November 23. However, De Jong has informed the Catalans that his departure from international duty was precautionary and not due to injuries.
With the Netherlands already securing a place in the quarterfinals of the UEFA Nations League, it makes sense for Ronald Koeman to rest some of his key players. As such, De Jong will not have to undergo any medical evaluation on his return to the Spanish giants.
Barcelona remain cautious about the player, who has suffered due to an ankle injury in the past six months. The 27-year-old has only returned to action recently and will have a crucial part to play in the coming games. De Jong has appeared just seven times across competitions for the Catalans this season, only two of which have been starts.
New manager Hansi Flick enjoyed a tremendous start to his tenure with the Spanish giants and has taken them to the top of the league table. However, Barcelona suffered a 1-0 defeat against Real Sociedad before the international break.
While they remain six points clear at the top of the table, second-placed Real Madrid have a game in hand. As such, the Catalans cannot afford to drop points against Celta Vigo this weekend.
When does Frenkie de Jong contract with Barcelona run out?
Frenkie de Jong is under contract with Barcelona until 2026, but his future at Camp Nou remains uncertain. The Dutchman has been linked with an exit for the past couple of summers but has opted to stay.
Manchester United were keen to sign him under Erik ten Hag. However, with the former Ajax manager gone, it is unclear whether the Red Devils will return for the player next summer.
Frenkie de Jong is one of the club's highest earners with a salary of €365,385 per week, as per Capology. The LaLiga giants could be open to let him go to help address their finances. However, it has also been reported that Hansi Flick holds the player in high regard and wants him to stay. The Dutchman has appeared 220 times for Barcelona so far, registering 17 goals and 21 assists.